Overview

• The single-engine aircraft touched down around 4:15 a.m. on the southbound lanes of Powers Boulevard near Barnes Road.
• Colorado Springs fire crews stopped a fuel leak and cleared the scene after temporary lane closures.
• Police confirmed the flight departed Colorado Springs Airport, and the plane’s owner said the pilot reported trouble about five minutes after takeoff.
• Fire officials said the FAA is responding to investigate, and an aviation analyst noted NTSB involvement could be delayed due to the government shutdown.
• Flight-track data cited by the analyst shows a maximum altitude near 6,600 feet, roughly 500 feet above the field, suggesting an issue immediately after liftoff in pre-dawn darkness.